Preseason Top 30 for the 2026 NHL Draft

It's the end of August and that means a new OHL season is right around the corner. It also means that it's time for me to release my first draft ranking for 2026. To assess these players we've seen them in the OHL (mostly) and for some we've seen them at the U17's and at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup. 

Of course, a ton is going to change between now and the actual 2026 draft. A lot will likely change before I make my first in season list in October/November. Here was last year's preseason list, as an example.

Covering the OHL region is going to be really interesting this year. There have been so many new recruits given the new NCAA eligibility rules. That's going to really elevate the depth of this crop of players. I felt good about the depth of the group before the influx of talent, so this could be a strong group for the OHL.

Note, I'm including players who played in the OHL last season at this point. Just easier to create an early list that way. So no Adam Novotny, Nikita Klepov, Callum Croskery, etc. Those guys will first appear in my October/November list. 

Here's the list:

1. Chase Reid - Defense - Soo Greyhounds

I think at this point there's a clear top three from the league that could be ordered a variety of ways depending on your preference. For me, right now, it's Chase Reid. He was so incredibly impressive upon joining the Greyhounds last year. He's a really dynamic offensive player. The skating is a strength, especially given his 6'2 frame. He's aggressive in activating and leading the rush. He's intelligent and poised in the offensive end and shows great promise as a powerplay quarterback. Defensively, he was inconsistent. His reads need work. The physical intensity needs to be more consistent. But, let's see how that develops this year. What you're looking at right now is a potential top pairing, powerplay quarterback with good size and a right shot. That's incredibly valuable.

2. Ethan Belchetz - Wing - Windsor Spitfires

Belchetz has a chance to be a unicorn in today's age. Skilled, but massive and powerful. He had a good Hlinka/Gretzky Cup as Canada's leading scorer, but I think he's still scratching the surface of what he's capable of and that's why I have him ahead of Roobroeck at this current time. Belchetz is going to be viewed similarly to Beckett Sennecke in that he's going to be a rare high pick who's seen as a longer term project. He's got things to work on. Pace needs to be more consistent. He moves well in straight lines, but his lateral quickness, agility, edgework, have room for improvement. He's still learning to truly use his size and frame to his advantage. The physical component needs to be more consistent. Most of all, I think his finishing ability and shot release need work. But...the final product could be fantastic and someone who has a unique impact in the NHL.

3. Ryan Roobroeck - Center/Wing - Niagara IceDogs

Understandably, a lot of people have Roobroeck first here. Like Belchetz, he's a massive forward with skill. However, I don't really view him as a potential power forward like I view Belchetz. I think Roobroeck is more of a high skill, high IQ guy who just happens to be big. The shot is the main calling card here. He has one of the best releases in this 2026 draft class (from any region). His scoring instincts are great too. He gets to the net. He finds space in the slot and slips coverage. For a bigger forward, his feet aren't a concern for me at all. What I'm looking for this year is improvement in his play away from the puck, in addition to more consistency from shift to shift. I'm also curious to see if he slides to center this year or whether he stays on the wing. 

4. Beckham Edwards - Center/Wing - Sarnia Sting

Big fan of Edwards' game and I thought he was criminally underutilized on the Canadian Hlinka/Gretzky team. His combination of speed and scoring ability makes him a threat any time he's on the ice. But, I also think he's got a great work rate and should eventually develop into a solid two-way player who can be utilized in any situation. Some things that I'm looking for this year; firstly, is he a center or a wing long term? Secondly, can he develop further as a playmaker and someone who elevates the play of those around him...or is he more of a complementary, quick strike weapon? 

5. Brooks Rogowski - Center - Oshawa Generals

Is Rogowski raw? Absolutely. Is he the fifth best player on this list right now? Absolutely not. But, the name of the game is projection and I think Rogowski can be a really solid pro down the line. I thought that he was solid for the U.S. at the Hlinka/Gretzky playing sound two-way hockey and getting himself to the net. He's unique because of how well he skates for a bigger player. He can beat defenders off the rush, it's just about adding strength to his wiry frame so that he can play through contact more efficiently. I also believe that his finishing ability needs to improve a lot, especially given that his role at higher levels is going to be as a net front presence. I just look at Rogowski and I wonder what could be in five years when he's filled out. IMO, he's more athletic than Jack Nesbitt, yet has a similar profile and Nesbitt just went in the lottery.

6. Alessandro Di Iorio - Center/Wing - Sarnia Sting

I look at Di Iorio as a player without a true calling card at this point in time. Everything grades out well, but what's the upside? That's going to be the million dollar question this year. Right now though, you have to love how well rounded his game is. He's versatile for that reason, something that he just proved at the Hlinka/Gretzky. With an average frame, we're going to be looking for the skating to add an extra gear this season. We're going to be looking to see if he can add a physical element to his game. We're going to see if he can drive play with the puck and create his own scoring chances similar to the way that teammate Edwards does. There's lots to like, let's see how he can take his game to another level and prove that he has top six upside at higher levels.

7. Colin Fitzgerald - Center - Peterborough Petes

Admittedly, I had Fitzgerald a few spots higher a few weeks ago, but I was fairly disappointed in his play at the Hlinka/Gretzky camp and at the tournament itself. I think we saw good attention to detail from him. He's a crafty player. But I wanted to see the more physicality from him given how he played at times as a rookie and how he played as a U16 player prior to the OHL. I thought his on puck play struggled at times through the neutral zone and his pace lagged. He hit a visible growth spurt in the last bit and I think that's had a bit of an impact on his skating. However, you know Fitzgerald is the kind of prospect that I typically love and it's important to not overreact too much. Let's see how he starts the season in Peterborough.

8. Pierce Mbuyi - Wing - Owen Sound Attack

Now we're getting into the territory of players that are a little bit difficult to rank currently. The reigning OHL rookie of the year, Mbuyi is certainly skilled. And I love that he plays bigger than his size and has a great work rate. He hunts down space and touches the way you want a smaller winger too. The skating is good, but is it good enough for a winger his size? Can he take his on puck play to another level this year? There's a Luca Pinelli/Denver Barkey like quality to his game, which is admirable, but what does it mean for his draft stock considering where those two were selected. 

9. Braidy Wassilyn - Wing/Center - Niagara IceDogs

For Wassilyn it's all about consistency. The Boston University commit has the talent. When he's dialed in physically and active off the puck, he's a real dangerous player. We saw that in minor hockey and we saw that at times in his rookie year in the OHL. However, that wasn't always the case and too often he was just kind of around the puck, but not asserting himself. He didn't have a great Hlinka/Gretzky camp (which is why he was cut) and it didn't appear that his skating, particularly his explosiveness, had improved much. Additionally, I'm curious to see if he slides to center this year or not. If Wassilyn explodes offensively, he's an easy first round selection. If not, he could even go undrafted. The range of outcomes is wild here. But the upside is too significant right now to place lower IMO.

10. JC Lemieux - Wing/Center - Windsor Spitfires

IMO, the biggest thing for Lemieux is to bulk up. That's going to be the biggest hindrance to him performing consistently this year. We saw that last year as a rookie (including his injury) and we saw that to start this year at the Hlinka/Gretzky. He's a hard worker. He brings an element of speed. He's actually way more skilled than we've seen thus far IMO (watch his play at last year's U17's to see that). Undersized, high energy guy just aren't high NHL draft selections though. Hopefully he can play a secondary role in Windsor this year and keep this status because I do like the player. But he's going to need to produce offensively to remain ranked this high.

11. Jacob Xu - Defense - Kitchener Rangers

I actually had Xu ranked a little higher before the Hlinka/Gretzky camp, but I thought that he really struggled at the camp and thus didn't make the final roster. He was really good for Kitchener last year, especially in the playoffs, because he was keeping things simple and was excelling in the defensive end. At the Hlinka, as he tried to do a little more offensively, we saw his puck play and defensive zone play suffer. I love the frame and defensive upside because he moves well and he wants to assert himself physically. But, I have some questions and reservations about the offensive upside. This is still an aggressive ranking IMO and represents the fact that I do appreciate what he can potentially bring to the table.

12. Carter Stevens - Center - Guelph Storm

One of the most underrated OHL draft prospects currently heading into the season. He always seemed to stand out when I watched Guelph last year. He plays a mature game for a young pivot. Responsible defensively. Gets to the net. Works the wall. Is a good skater. Just a really solid all around profile here. Now let's see how he takes his game up another notch. Improvements made to his on puck play will dictate how high he gets drafted.

13. Parker Vaughan - Wing - North Bay Battalion

High energy, power winger with goal scoring upside. I thought that he had a good Hlinka/Gretzky camp in Oakville and had to be a serious contender for the final roster. Vaughan looked quicker than a year ago and he was hard on pucks. This year with North Bay should give us a better indication of his high end offensive upside. Are we looking at a change of pace, bottom six guy or does Vaughan have top six upside?

14. Cole Zurawski - Wing - Owen Sound Attack

A pretty similar player to Vaughan, only I feel like the power component of his game isn't as consistent. Zurawski is a strong skating, North/South goal scorer. Has a great shot. Owen Sound is a good spot for him as they've (largely) developed these types of players well, getting them to buy into being strong off puck players. Was quite disappointed by Zurawski's play at the Hlinka camp, but let's see how he starts the year in Owen Sound.

15. Ryder Cali - Center - North Bay Battalion

The prototype of the modern day NHL pivot and a guy who is going to generate a ton of buzz this year if he can have a good first full year in the OHL. He had a great year in the OJHL and even though he struggled a bit with pace/strength in his cup of coffee in the OHL, I think the upside is really high here. I see a well rounded player with strong puck skills who should be able to be a top six forward for North Bay this season. 

16. Lucas Ambrosio - Defense - Erie Otters

Big, physical, shut down defender. He was already pretty confident being a mean customer as a rookie, so I'm really curious to see how that blossoms further now that he's a year older, stronger, and more confident. His mobility is decent for the kind of game he plays. I've been fairly impressed by his ability to defend the rush and keep attackers to the outside. I wonder how his play with the puck evolves this year. Is there offensive upside? 

17. Jaxon Cover - Wing - London Knights

Really cool story about a late bloomer. Cover was born in the Cayman Islands and only switched from inline hockey several years ago. He was even playing AA previously before making a later jump to AAA closer to his OHL draft year. He has a ton of skill and creativity with the puck, but his game is crazy raw (as you might expect). Thought he played well for SAC last year and in the few games for London. He could rise quickly if he plays well in London to start the year. The physical tools and upside are excellent.

18. Brady Smith - Wing - Soo Greyhounds

Acquired by the Soo in the Andrew Gibson deal, Smith has long been considered one of the best goal scorers in this Ontario age group. He's got a wicked shot and strong scoring instincts. That obviously gives him pretty significant upside. Now it's time to see how the rest of his game rounds out. Hopefully he got quicker this offseason to help him create separation. Adding strength would have been key too so that he can find more success through the middle of the ice and near the crease at this level. 

19. Carson Andrew - Center/Wing - Soo Greyhounds

I was pretty shocked when Andrew didn't even get an invite to the massive group of U18's invited to the U.S.' Hlinka/Gretzky camp (prior to cut down when it was done by region). Former standout with Shattuck St. Mary's and a St. Louis native, it just didn't make sense. Andrew is a big bodied winger who can get to the net and has strong puck protection skill already. I see him developing into a really strong playmaker as his frame fills out. I'll be looking for some skating improvements this year, but this is someone who I'm shocked we don't hear more about. Two years ago he was right there with the likes of Tynan Lawrence and Mikey Berchild on the Shattuck scoring chart.

20. Alex McLean - Center - Guelph Storm

Really the only thing missing from McLean's game is size. An undersized pivot, I was really impressed by McLean's two-way play and PK work at the Hlinka/Gretzky camp. I thought that he put himself in a pretty good position to earn a roster spot. As an OHL'er, I've previously been impressed by his vision and passing ability, in conjunction with his speed and ability to play with pace. With an August birthday, it'll be interesting to see if he can hit a growth spurt. Otherwise, the offensive production is going to need to be really strong this year for him to maintain this kind of ranking.

21. Logan Hawery - Center - London Knights

Hawery has long been hyped as one of the best players in this 2008 born age group in Ontario. He played up an age level for several years in Barrie. The offensive upside here is pretty significant. He could easily be the next in line of London Knights to take off as an offensive star. I think he has one of the better shots in this group and his scoring instincts are excellent too. For an undersized player, he found a decent amount of success in the middle of the ice too, a testament to his high IQ. Like McLean, it's just a matter of seeing that production bump given that he's undersized. 

22. Wesley Royston - Wing - Erie Otters

I've seen Royston listed and mentioned much higher than this. He's definitely a breakout candidate as he enters his third year in the OHL (as a late 2007 born). The big winger is a potential power forward. Decent skater for a big man. Shows upside as a goal scorer with a heavy shot. Just needs to find that consistency and prove that he can be an impact offensive player. Maybe I'm not quite as convinced as others based on this ranking, but let's see what this year brings.

23. Ryan Brown - Wing - Sarnia Sting

Not going to lie, I was a little disappointed in Brown's development last year. Really liked him as a rookie two years ago and felt like he was poised to be a breakout offensive star last year. It didn't happen. Now entering his third OHL season (with a late birthday 2007 birthday), it's put up time for Brown. The tools are there. He brings energy. He has the skill to finish off plays and create them. He can play with pace. It's just finding that consistency and making better decisions with the puck. 

24. Rylan Singh - Defense - Guelph Storm

Singh is a solid puck moving defender who quietly put together a strong season for the Storm last year. Really like his play inside the offensive zone. He has quick feet in all four directions and he's poised holding the line. Let's see how he cleans up things in the defensive end this year. He's not the biggest defender either, so it would be great for him to start playing with a little more jam without the puck. Might just be one of those very solid junior defenders and nothing more, but I've liked his game dating back to his time with YSE, so I'm willing to give the benefit of the doubt here.

25. Carter Hicks - Defense - Windsor Spitfires

Well rounded defender who was solid in a supporting role as a rookie. Decent size, decent mobility, and with a right shot. Future probably lies in his ability to become a true defensive stalwart, because I don't think I see significant offensive upside. Curious to see how he breaks out of that "Jack of all trades" kind of stigma this season.

26. Ryder Carey - Wing/Center - North Bay Battalion

Carey was one of my favourite OHL draft eligible players eligible in 2024 after helping Oakville win the OHL Cup. I thought his size, speed and, high energy game would translate well to the OHL. His rookie year in North Bay was about what you'd expect. He showed flashes of being an effective complementary offensive player, but he struggled with puck management and consistency. I think that Carey can develop into a Michael Bunting kind of player at this level, but he'll need to take a big step this season.

27. Blake Gowan - Defense - Peterborough Petes

Similar to Lucas Ambrosio as a potential, physical, shut down defender, but I don't think that he has the physical tools that Ambrosio has that make him a better NHL prospect currently. Like some other similar defenders on this list, it's about showcasing some semblance of an offensive game this year as he, hopefully, takes on more responsibility.

28. Hunter Solomon - Defense - Soo Greyhounds

A late born 2007, Solomon was solid as an OHL rookie last year for the Greyhounds.  He's a potential two-way defender who brought an element of physicality, but also showed that he could make plays to start the breakout. There were enough moments offensively to suggest that he could have some upside as a potential powerplay quarterback. I'm looking for improvements in skating and decision making this year, but he's worthy of a spot on this early list IMO.

29. Gavin Betts - Goaltender - Kingston Frontenacs

Make no mistake, Betts is going to have to be pretty phenomenal this year for Kingston to get drafted given his lack of size (6'0). One of the things that he really needs to work on, based on what I saw at the Hlinka/Gretzky and in limited OHL action last year, is limiting second/third chance opportunities. He's such a terrific athlete/competitor in the crease; he makes routine highlight reel saves. However, he's too "scrambly" in the crease for his size, and that will be his biggest criticism in his draft year. There's that Tim Thomas/Dominik Hasek like quality to his approach. Hopefully he can work with the Fronts staff this year to help him find better control.

30. Trevor Theuer - Center - Saginaw Spirit

Another player on this list who didn't play much in the OHL last year, but who I thought showed promise with limited minutes (and in some of his play with the NTDP that I caught). Hard working, possession driving pivot who uses his strong skating ability to apply pressure and earn touches. He excels as a playmaker down low and can attack with pace. Really not sure the offensive upside is extremely significant, but we'll see how much ice time he gets in Saginaw this year.

 

Top 25 OHL Prospects - Summer of 2025

An annual mid-summer practice now, I'm ranking the top NHL affiliated prospects who played in the OHL last season. This list is 25 names deep with several honorable mentions.

1. Matthew Schaefer - Defense - New York Islanders

This is a no brainer for me. No secret that I love Schaefer and feel that he has the upside to be a franchise leading defender in the NHL for the Islanders. He's the complete package. Elite skater. Elite processor. Great human. Really the only thing missing from his game is a high end shot, which I think he'll need to work on to be a top notch powerplay quarterback at the next level. While I do expect him to earn a game or two in the NHL, I think given how little he played last year, the smart choice would be returning him to the OHL for one more year.

2. Michael Misa - Center/Wing - San Jose Sharks

Another no brainer for me to have Misa second. I believe there to be a gap between Schaefer/Misa and the rest of the players on this list. Like Schaefer, Misa is the complete package. He has all the tools to be a franchise leading forward and a legitimate top line player. It'll be interesting to see if he can make the Sharks this year. If I was a betting man, I'd have him returning to the OHL, but we'll see. Another year outside of the NHL wouldn't hurt him, allowing him to continue to upgrade his strength on and off the puck. I think he has even more to give as a physically intense player, matching his skill.

3. Sam Dickinson - Defense - San Jose Sharks

Hard to argue with the year Dickinson had in London, capturing another OHL title. His physical tools are off the charts good. The size/skating combination is going to play in the NHL. It's just a matter of him continuing to work on his decision making, refining his game further. I don't think he's NHL ready. The World Juniors proved that, where he struggled and reverted into a shell of himself, losing confidence in his carrying and creation ability. I worry that similar things could happen if he's rushed to the NHL. Look, I know everyone is obsessed with the new age of development, but for decades players have been returned to the junior level as 19 year olds and it hasn't ruined their development. But what can? Rushing players before they're ready. Yes, the production is amazing and will continue to be so at the OHL level. But...let him continue to explore his defensive dominance, let him continue to improve his reads. Patience will be key.

4. Zayne Parekh - Defense - Calgary Flames

I actually believe that Parekh is more likely to make the NHL full time this year compared to Dickinson, but I still prefer Dickinson's two-way upside long term. Parekh has the swagger and confidence to be an NHL offensive defender and Calgary can shelter him defensively until he gets stronger. I do think he'll struggle defensively for his first few years in the league. But, he's a smart player. With the right mindset, he should become an adequate defensive player. The key for Parekh is going to be channeling that aggressive mindset to play that way in the defensive end. I think back to a guy like Brian Campbell, who really didn't take that next step as a somewhat undersized defender (especially in his era) until his physical intensity became more consistent. Parekh has it all offensively, it's just a matter of whether the defensive game can be good enough for him to be a top defender on a playoff team.

5. Brady Martin - Center - Nashville Predators

As you know, I love Martin. I was on his train all year for the draft and I think Nashville got a gem at fifth overall. I look at the impact a guy like Mike Richards had in the NHL, winning Cups while playing in all situations, wearing a letter, and contributing significantly offensively. Martin's play style is a bit different than Richards. He's a harder hitter. He's more of a goal scorer than playmaker. He's not an elite level two-way processor like Richards was, but I think the impact at the NHL level can be similar. I'm really intrigued by what an offseason of training with NHL resources has done for his development heading into this OHL season. I think he's going to have a monster year in the Soo.

6. Beckett Sennecke - Wing - Anaheim Ducks

The former third overall selection had a very strong year with the Generals, helping them to another deep run in the OHL playoffs, even after the later start to the year because of the foot fracture. I like him a smidge more than Martone because even though I think Martone's IQ with the puck is better, I believe that Sennecke is the more "raw" player even though he's older. He's still filling out his frame and learning how dominant he can be because of his skill/hands and size combination. I think he has more upside to be a player driving winger than Martone does at the NHL level because the feet are better and I think he's a more naturally competitive off puck player. It's damn close though. We're really comparing apples to apples. At the end of the day, they probably have similar offensive upsides from a production perspective. I'm just drawn to the continued untapped upside of Sennecke.

7. Porter Martone - Wing - Philadelphia Flyers

Well, this is the last time Martone will be on this list given his commitment to Michigan State. I'm genuinely curious to see how he performs for the Spartans. But, I do think Martone has what it takes to be a terrific and consistent top six NHL forward. Equal parts playmaker/goal scorer. High IQ as an offensive player. Better skater than people give him credit for; I don't see it as an issue. I just think that Martone's power game has been a little overstated. He's more pest than power forward. And therein lies the key to his NHL stardom. If he can find a way to channel that pest like behaviour into a more consistently physical two-way approach, he's going to be a gem for the Flyers...and a top notch complementary piece alongside a guy like Michkov. But that's got to be the focal point of his development at Michigan State this year...being better without the puck.

8. Kashawn Aitcheson - Defense - New York Islanders

I think that the Islanders got a steal drafting Aitcheson where they did. His improvement as a two-way defender this year was remarkable. He's never going to dazzle as an three zone creator at the NHL level, but he's very smart with his activation and his big point shot gives him powerplay upside. The key for Aitcheson is to transform himself from physical stalwart to defensive stalwart. There's no denying that Aitcheson would go through a wall to help his team win. He is combative and he competes; that means blocking shots and stepping up his game when it matters most. However, I think his defensive zone reads and overall close quarters work (board work, crease work, PK ability) has more room to grow if he's to be considered a true defensive stalwart. 

9. Jake O'Brien - Center - Seattle Kraken

Probably a bit surprising for you to see O'Brien behind Aitcheson, but if you read my work consistently, you'd know that I ranked Aitcheson a spot ahead in my final draft rankings this year. Not going to change that just because O'Brien was, expectedly, drafted ahead of Aitcheson. I do like O'Brien though. One of the most intelligent players on this list. I just have some reservations about his lack of even strength production and how well his physical tools translate to the NHL level. It's likely that O'Brien improves his conditioning, gets quicker, becomes stronger on the puck, and improves the consistency of his impact. However, it's not a certainty in my eyes. Really excited to see how he looks this year and how he can lead Brantford to an East title (potentially).

10. Igor Chernyshov - Wing - San Jose Sharks

Man, what a revelation Chernyshov was this year with Saginaw after he healed up and joined the league. He's such a well rounded player. Here's a player that I don't really see having a significant flaw. Great size. Great handles. Protects the puck well and gets to the net. Works hard in puck pursuit and is a great boards player. Is capable defensively and can be utilized in any situation. I don't think he'll drive play at the NHL level, but he's going to be the perfect complementary piece on a scoring line; the kind of guy who can open up space and help get pucks to the net. I mean, why wouldn't San Jose continue to keep him and Misa together moving forward?

11. Easton Cowan - Wing - Toronto Maple Leafs

It was going to be hard for Cowboy to replicate the award winning season he had a year ago, but it was still a good year for the Leafs' top prospect. I mean, you could base your entire opinion of him on his poor World Juniors performance where he struggled with his decision making and playmaking. Or, you could watch him on a regular basis in London, where he's a much more effective player. Granted, I'll admit that some bad habits crept into his game this year and he's going to have to learn to simplify things to find success at the NHL level. However, he has all the tools to be a quality middle six fixture for Toronto for the next decade; speed, tenacity, scoring ability. I think he'll need time at the AHL level this year, even if it's a partial season.

12. Liam Greentree - Wing - Los Angeles Kings

Greentree is one of those guys who just has that "it" factor. He's not really a dynamic player. He's just remarkably efficient. High IQ. Great shot and scoring instincts. This year, he really became a more consistent workhorse, getting to the net, working the wall to extend plays; he understands how to leverage his strength on the puck. Yeah, the skating will need to continue to get better, but we all know that the Kings are working hard with him to improve his quickness. It's easy to see Greentree settling into a long NHL career as a 25-25 guy. 

13. Ilya Protas - Center/Wing - Washington Capitals

Man, what a revelation Protas was this year in Windsor. To be completely frank, I think Protas was overall more influential and integral to Windsor's success this year than Greentree. He's just as smart as Greentree, but he's a better two-way player at this point. He's also such a highly skilled playmaker. With his size/strength, and handling ability, he's so difficult to contain, even if his pace is going to need to increase to continue that success to the NHL level. Seems likely that he plays as a 19 year old in the AHL this year, rather than return to the OHL. Ilya is a better player than his brother Alexei at the same age, and Alexei is coming off a tremendous breakout NHL season. So why isn't he higher? I guess there's just a bit of trepidation on my part because the skating will need to continue to improve. But Protas is a gamer. His upside is higher than both Cowan and Greentree IMO.

14. Jett Luchanko - Center - Philadelphia Flyers

It was quite the whirlwind year for Luchanko. An NHL start. A depth role at the WJC's. A strong finish to the year at the AHL level. Mixed in...a leadership role on a rebuilding, bottom feeding Guelph team. To quote the great Johnny Cash, "he's been everywhere man." Would a move to a better OHL team at the deadline have been better for his development this year? Debatable. His path could honestly look pretty similar again this year, although Guelph definitely has a chance to be better this season. I still love Luchanko's speed, competitiveness, and playmaking chops. I still view him as a quality middle six center in the future for Philadelphia. I think he's one of the safest bets to be an NHL player on this list. Let's see if he can take his offensive game to the next level this year with a more mature supporting cast.

15. Oliver Bonk - Defense - Philadelphia Flyers

Bonk is such an interesting prospect because I don't think we have a great idea of how he'll be utilized at the next level. The Hunters in London have used Bonk pretty creatively the last few years. He's been a PK anchor and shutdown defender, but he's also been a slot presence on the powerplay. Similar to a guy like Alec Regula, it begs the question of how well will his offensive production carry over? I'd be more apprehensive of Bonk if I didn't feel his defensive game had grown significantly in the last calendar year. A terrific shot blocker and a player with a solid feel for the game, Bonk should at least carve out a role as a reliable #5 if the offensive game becomes much less of a factor. 

16. Calum Ritchie - Center - New York Islanders

Moved to Long Island in the Brock Nelson deal, Ritchie likely became expendable this year due to perceived notions over his game plateauing. In some ways, I'd agree with that. I did have higher expectations for his development this year and I think it's fair to suggest that he's stagnated a bit. On the other hand...Ritchie is still a solid player. Even if the pace, physical intensity, and scoring ability could still be more consistent, he's still a terrific playmaker with his ability to protect the puck and make quick decisions in the offensive end. I've seen Ryan Strome come up a lot as a comparison and I think that's a fair one to make. 

17. Jack Nesbitt - Center - Philadelphia Flyers

The big pivot was obviously drafted a lot higher than many expected, myself included. But the Flyers are banking on his development curve being steep as he fills out and matures physically. Considering how much he improved between his first and second OHL seasons, it's not a terrible bet for them to make. While there's no question that he could possess more offensive upside, I think a safe projection is something similar to Adam Lowry in Winnipeg...a player I've seen Nesbitt compare himself to. With Protas likely in the AHL this year, I'm curious to see how Nesbitt handles first line duties this season.

18. Sam O'Reilly - Center - Tampa Bay Lightning

Acquired by Tampa Bay for Isaac Howard, it's easy to see why the Lightning valued O'Reilly so much. They envision him becoming an integral part of their middle six, in a similar mold to Anthony Cirelli. O'Reilly plays such a mature, pro style of game already. He's a tremendous defensive forward. He is physically intense. He is driven to get himself and pucks to the middle of the ice. He's a better playmaker than he gets credit for too. People talk about his heavy shot, but his vision with the puck is a better asset IMO. Look for him to have a monster offensive season in London this year.

19. Quentin Musty - Wing - San Jose Sharks

Oh Quentin Musty. Where to rank you? His offensive upside is near the top of this group of OHL players. If he hits, Musty is going to be a consistent 60 point NHL player. However, this just wasn't a great year for his development and I've always been a bit lower on Musty than my contemporaries too. The trade requests. The injuries. The step back in play away from the puck. I think he was more ready for the pro game after the 2023/24 season, when his game really took a nice step forward. This year, I'm not as convinced. But, as stated, it wouldn't make sense to rank him lower than this given the upside he possesses.

20. Carter George - Goaltender - Los Angeles Kings

Big Carter George fan here. It was amazing to see him finish the year out in the AHL and absolutely dominate in his two starts. Yeah...he's not 6'4. But, George does a really good job of leveraging the frame he does have. He's aggressive in challenging shooters. He's a fantastic play tracker who rarely seems to miss an angle. He's consistent. I think he has what it takes to be an NHL starting netminder. He's going to be in for a big OHL season and...hopefully...a gold medal at the World Juniors.

21. Cameron Reid - Defense - Nashville Predators

Is it possible to both really like a player, but also be apprehensive about their NHL prospects? That's sort of where I was at with Reid in ranking him for the 2025 Draft. I love the mobility and transitional play. I think he's an extremely intelligent defender. I see a lot of offensive upside. I also believe that he'll continue to improve defensively given his high IQ. However, the apprehensiveness comes in the way of him being an average sized, jack of all trades type. Other similarly profiled defenders from the CHL have struggled in the last decade. Over the next few years, Reid just needs to find a way to become more dominant with the puck, in addition to becoming more physically assertive without it. 

22. Luca Marrelli - Defense - Columbus Blue Jackets

Speaking of "jacks of all trades" types, Marrelli is the perfect example of how to escape from that stereotype. And that's by becoming a dominant two-way defender at the junior level. Admittedly, I wasn't a huge fan in his draft year. I just wasn't sure what the projection was. Now? I have a much clearer picture. Sometimes you just have to bet on an intelligent player. And that's what Marrelli is, without question one of the smartest players on this list. Now, do I think his NHL projection is significant? No. But, I think he can be a really solid number four who can eat up powerplay minutes and help the breakout. 

23. Nick Lardis - Wing - Chicago Blackhawks

Lardis got my vote for the Red Tilson this year. It was so great to see him healthy and performing at the top of his game. All the things that he needed to do to prepare for the pro game, he did this year. He stayed healthy (except the blip in the playoffs). He was more aggressive and assertive with the puck, looking to attack the middle. He was stronger on the puck and more difficult to slow down. Obviously the shot is still a major weapon too. Bottom line, Lardis consistently created his own opportunities this year and became more than just an opportunistic scorer. Now, how does he take that next step in the AHL this year? Similar to a guy like Nick Robertson, there are bound to be some learning curves given that he's undersized, but has proven that he needs to play aggressive to be successful. But, I love the progress this year and I'd be willing to be patient with him.

24. Ben Danford - Defense - Toronto Maple Leafs

Maybe this is a bit rich for some, given Danford's lack of development offensively this past year, but I'm still a big believer in his game. He was never drafted for his offensive abilities and he'll never be in the NHL for his offensive ability. It's about being the best defensive defender in the OHL this past year. His physical game became way more consistent as he became a smothering force. He's a warrior on the ice with how he blocks shots, clogs lanes, and makes life difficult for the opposition. With his mobility and frame, this can continue in the NHL too. And now with Marrelli out of the picture in Oshawa, Danford will get an opportunity to show more of an offensive side to his game and I'm excited to see what he does with it.

TIE - 25. Lukas Fischer - Defense - St. Louis Blues

In my eyes, one of the most underrated defensive prospects around. Is his game perfect? Absolutely not. He's still going to need to continue to improve his decision making with, and without the puck. However, he was phenomenal for Sarnia this year and I'm not sure enough people saw how dominant he was at both ends at times. The physical tools continue to be outstanding. Solid mobility for his size. A big shot. Improving puck skill. Improving confidence in his physical game and shutdown ability. He was always going to be a longer term project, but the Blues have to be ecstatic with the results so far.

TIE - 25. Jacob Battaglia - Wing - Calgary Flames

I couldn't decide between Fischer and Battaglia for the last spot, so I'm cheating a bit. One of the most improved players and prospects in the OHL this past season and I think that really flew under the radar. What impressed me most this year was his transformation into a primary play driver. His small area skill is fantastic. With his frame, he can still keep plays alive along the wall and get to the net, but his skating and handling ability improved considerably this year allowing him to play with pace and be one of the OHL's premier playmakers. Now it's about rounding out his play away from the puck and continuing to improve his skating. A sneaky contender to finish top three in the OHL scoring race this coming season.

Honorable Mentions (listed in alphabetical order)

Denver Barkey - Wing/Center - Philadelphia Flyers

How could you not love Barkey and what he brings to the ice? He's like "The Little Engine That Could." Where there's a will, there's a way. I just wish he were a little more dynamic of a skater given his lack of size. That's my one true concern about how his game translates.

Colby Barlow - Wing - Winnipeg Jets

I was such a huge fan of Barlow's in his draft year, but there's no denying that his development stagnated. He's pretty much the same player he was when he was drafted. Can that player still be an NHL asset? Absolutely. He still has the big shot from the flank. He is still a solid two-way player. He can play that North/South power game. The key for him will be leaning into the physical components of his game to become a better complementary piece.

Cole Beaudoin - Center/Wing - Utah Mammoth

I don't think it was a great year for Beaudoin's development. He's still an aggressive and versatile two-way forward, but the scoring touch, ability to play with pace, and skating still need to improve. I look forward to him having a bounce back season in Barrie.

Henry Brzustewicz - Defense - Los Angeles Kings

I see Brzustewicz as a player who will use this season to truly carve out an identity. I liked him for this past draft and I liked where the Kings grabbed him. He has a great toolkit. It's just about how it all comes together for him. There's a lot of unknown there. With an expended role in London, he's going to be put in a great position to succeed.

Ethan Czata - Center/Wing - Tampa Bay Lightning

A personal favourite of mine for the draft this year, I think that Tampa got great value where they selected him in the second round. I think the first half Czata we saw last year is more indicative of the player that he can become; an excellent two-way force who is difficult to play against. As mentioned with O'Reilly, Tampa has a clear vision of what they want their middle six to look like and it's worked for them.

Andrew Gibson - Defense - Nashville Predators

A tough as nails, right shot defender...who couldn't use that in their lineup? The key for Gibson will be continuing to improve his mobility, in addition to making quicker decisions with the puck. Defensively, he's a rock. Has a really good chance to develop into a solid #4-6 guy for the Preds.

Kasper Halttunen - Wing - San Jose Sharks

Playoff Halttunen is an animal. Regular season Halttunen is mediocre. Even if San Jose could find something in the middle, they could have an NHL player on their hands. I think for someone like Halttunen, it's going to come down to utilization. The big shot is a weapon. He can get to the net. The power game, passing game, off puck play, and skating are a work in progress still. 

Jack Ivankovic - Goaltender - Nashville Predators

I guess the Predators are hoping that Saros can be an excellent mentor to Ivankovic in the future, given that both are undersized. It's just about finding that consistency for him, outside of wearing the Maple Leaf (where he's never been less than stellar). Refine his movements, limit second chances. The athleticism is there. Hope he finds a lot of success at Michigan.

Alexei Medvedev - Goaltender - Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks got a good one in Medvedev, who probably would have went higher in 2025 if not for the fact that he barely played the last few months for a champion London team. Now the crease is his in London and I'm excited to see what he does with it. Definitely a potential NHL netminder.

Henry Mews - Defense - Calgary Flames

For many, Mews probably would have been ranked inside the top 25 on this list. He has the offensive talent, that's for sure. He's a terrific puck mover. However, I still have questions about his decision making and how well his game will translate to the pro level. I'm really interested to see how he handles the speed, size, and physicality of the NCAA game, which IMO, is a step up from the OHL. 

Emil Pieniniemi - Defense - Pittsburgh Penguins

What a pleasant surprise Emil Pieniniemi was this year for the Frontenacs, emerging as one of the OHL's top defenders. He's silky smooth on the backend. Calm under pressure. I don't think his NHL upside is significant, but I think he can be a reliable #4-6 guy for the Penguins in the future. 

Luca Pinelli - Wing/Center - Columbus Blue Jackets

Basically everything I said about Denver Barkey goes double for Pinelli. It's just a matter of whether he can succeed playing the way he needs to...at his size in the NHL. Is he dynamic enough?

Carson Rehkopf - Center/Wing - Seattle Kraken

I had high expectations for Rehkopf coming into this year, especially playing on that "stacked" Brampton team. But, I don't think his game took a significant step forward. The shot is going to be a weapon at the pro level...no question. But, what about the rest of his game which remains inconsistent? 

Malcolm Spence - Wing - New York Rangers

It pains me to say it (a bit), given my role in covering the OHL, but I think the move to Michigan (NCAA) is a good one for Spence. His offensive game never truly took off in Erie and I think his power game and athletic abilities are tailored perfectly to the college game. I'm still not necessarily convinced Spence has top six upside, but let's see how he plays with the Wolverines.

Carey Terrance - Center/Wing - New York Rangers

Another guy whose offensive game never really hit the heights that I expected them to in the OHL. But, I do believe that he can be a long time NHL player. He's a bit of a Swiss army knife. His game is perfectly tailored to be the kind of bottom six player all NHL teams covet these days. 

Tuomas Uronen - Wing - Vegas Golden Knights

Man what a shot he has. Was great to see him bounce back after a disastrous, injury riddled first season in the OHL. He was such a nice surprise. Consistently came away impressed by him when I watched Kingston. Really like North/South power game. Pretty solid in all three zones. Just a good, well rounded player who I heavily considered putting in my top 25. Looks like a potential powerplay weapon and middle six guy for Vegas.

Marek Vanacker - Wing - Chicago Blackhawks

Tough year for the Blackhawks first rounder. He never seemed to find a groove following a late start to the year after offseason shoulder surgery. However, this year, he'll be more of a focal point of the Brantford offense and should bounce back. 

Nathan Villeneuve - Center - Seattle Kraken

Much like some of the other players on this list, Villeneuve likely doesn't have significant offensive upside at the NHL level, but there's no questioning that he has the potential to be a long time NHL player in some capacity. He's tenacious, physical, and a solid two-way presence. 

Kieron Walton - Wing - Winnipeg Jets

It was definitely a breakout season for Walton in Sudbury. The massive winger really blossomed under coach Scott Barney. He can be so difficult to stop moving downhill because he protects the puck well and has the skill/creativity to create space through the middle. I'd still like to see the physical engagement and off puck play be more consistent.